What is the Difference Between Neanderthals and Humans?

Neanderthals and modern humans (Homo sapiens) share many similarities, but there are several key differences between the two. Some of the most notable differences include:

1. Physical appearance: Neanderthals had a more robust build, with shorter limbs, broader chests, and more pronounced brows compared to modern humans. They also had a less-pronounced chin.
2. Brain size: Neanderthals had larger brains than modern humans, although it is unclear how this affected their cognition.
3. Genetic differences: Neanderthals and modern humans share about 99.7% of their genetic material. However, the small percentage of differences has led to distinct traits, such as Neanderthals' contribution to modern humans' immune systems, skin, and sense of smell.
4. Lifestyle: Neanderthals were hunter-gatherers who lived in small bands. They sometimes buried their dead, wore jewelry, and decorated themselves with ochre. They were also tool users, similar to contemporary Homo sapiens.
5. Speech and language: It is believed that Neanderthals may have been unable to produce the full range of vocal sounds as modern humans.

Additionally, while Neanderthals and modern humans were capable of interbreeding, the two populations maintained separate evolutionary paths for a significant period, leading some scientists to consider them distinct species.

Comparative Table: Neanderthals vs Humans

Here is a table highlighting the key differences between Neanderthals and modern humans (Homo sapiens):

Neanderthals and modern humans both belong to the same genus, Homo, but are separate species. They had distinct physical features, with Neanderthals having a more robust and stocky body, a broader and larger nose, and a more pronounced brow ridge. Additionally, Neanderthals and modern humans had different tool-making abilities and technologies.